What was the name of the significant battleship launched in 1873 for the Royal Navy?

The battleship launched in 1873 for the Royal Navy was indeed HMS Devastation. This ship is notable for being one of the first ocean-going warships that did not carry sails and was powered solely by steam. HMS Devastation represented a significant shift in naval design principles, moving towards a modern battleship concept. Key characteristics included her all-big-gun armament and her ironclad hull.

The launch of HMS Devastation marked an important transition in naval technology, as it was designed with a focus on heavy artillery and armor, establishing a foundation for future battleships. This development reflected broader trends in naval warfare of the time, emphasizing firepower and protection over the traditional wooden sailing ships.

In contrast, the other ships listed, such as HMS Warrior (launched in 1860 and known for being the first iron-hulled warship), HMS Invincible (launched in 1908 and recognized as the first battlecruiser), and HMS Queen Elizabeth (launched in 1913, famous for its role in World War I), were significant in their own right but do not fit the criteria of being the battleship launched in 1873.